What’s important for you in a workplace?

The economic crisis, the war started in Israel in October 2023, the global changes have all raised career and organizational concerns among many workers in different areas. 

According to a recent labor market survey, only 9% of Israeli high-tech workers are actively looking for a new job; 35% are willing to change  jobs in exchange for financial stability.

I’ve been consulting and coaching over one hundred job seekers for the last several years and any career session I start with a question:

What’s important for you in a workplace?

Based on the main characteristics that a person defines in a company as desired, a job seeker should build the job search strategy.

There are plenty of factors that usually influence our choice of a workplace, such as: personal circumstances, career opportunities, company’s status. Let’s take a closer look at them.

Personal circumstances

Age, family status, and place of residence all come into consideration when we are job searching. How? Let’s be honest here. When we are young, free, and don’t really have any responsibilities, we are more flexible about our job and career.

To commute to work for 1 hour in the morning? It’s fine! To work overtime, on weekends, and holidays? I’m in.

However, with age, family, and other personal factors, our priorities might differ. For example, if I’m job searching now, I keep in mind the hours of my kid’s daycare, the logistics from home to kindergarten and then to the potential office, and the work-life balance that allows for family activities on weekends and holidays. 

Company’s status

Unfortunately, job seekers don’t always consider the company itself as a very important factor for their work. What should you pay attention to?

Company’s Size 

Let’s briefly consider the differences between small and large companies.

Small Company

• Typically fewer than 50 employees.
• Closer and less formal relationships in a team, with direct communication.
• Flexible roles: Employees might take on a variety of roles and responsibilities, gaining valuable experience but sometimes being solo players.
• Less bureaucracy allows for quicker decision-making and shorter processes.
• Transparency and visibility make contributions more noticeable, which can lead to faster recognition and career advancement.
• Limited resources for things like training, benefits, and technology.
• Less job security might be caused by limited investments and financial resources.

Large Company

• Generally has more than 250 employees.
• Structured environment with established procedures, policies, and a clear organizational structure.
• Comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and training and upskilling opportunities, are more common.
• Job security and stability due to the company’s established market presence and financial resources.
• Bureaucracy that slows down decision-making processes and innovation.
• Less flexibility and more strict processes and policies.

Company’s Product/Service/Market

When choosing a workplace, we not only read the requirements of the role but also learn about the company’s products and services, main clients, and the markets where the business operates. How do you relate to the company’s policy? Will you believe in its product? Would you love to contribute to its business development? All of this is a small piece of the big puzzle named “A Job of Your Dream”.

Career Opportunities

When considering a workplace from a career opportunities perspective, it’s crucial to look beyond the immediate role and evaluate the potential for long-term growth and development.

For example, companies that focus on the professional development of their staff invest in training, mentorship programs, and continued education.

Company reputation and industry standing might also be a game-changer for career development, such as a stable market position, positive employee reviews, and awards and recognitions.

Conclusion

Finding the right job requires a strategic approach that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.

Personal Priorities: Recognize how your needs change with age, family status, and location. Early on, flexibility and diverse experiences may be key, while later, stability and work-life balance might become more critical.

Company Characteristics: Evaluate companies based on their size, culture, and market position. Small companies offer flexibility and rapid learning, while large companies provide structure, resources, and job security.

Choose companies whose missions and products you believe in, enhancing your job satisfaction and motivation.

Career Opportunities: Look for companies that invest in employee development through training, mentorship, and internal mobility. Seek employers who support your growth and remain open to new opportunities that can advance your career.

Strategic Job Search: Tailor your job search strategy to highlight your strengths and align with potential employers’ opportunities. Use networking and professional associations to open doors. Stay informed about market trends and adapt your strategy to navigate economic fluctuations and geopolitical events. Flexibility and resilience are key.

To summarize, by focusing on your personal priorities, evaluating companies carefully, and strategically planning your job search, you can find a job that not only meets your needs but also offers long-term career fulfillment.